Tracy Reese was one of the designers I was most looking forward to seeing during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, so you can imagine my disappointment when I didn't get admitted into the show after waiting 45 minutes in line. Apparently, it had been moved from the Promenade to the smaller Salon venue and couldn't accommodate everyone who had been invited so a bunch of us (30? 40 people?) were turned away as the doors closed and the show began. The horror. I swallowed back my tears (sorry to be so dramatic but I was really distraught, fashion week newbie, remember?) and watched the show, instead, on the TVs inside the lobby which broadcast all the shows in real time. Fortunately, the collection was gorgeous and I quickly forgot about my problems as models strutted out in front of a watercolor floral backdrop wearing Reese's girly frocks interspersed by the designer's new forays into edgier territory. Here, the show finale as seen on the monitors broadcast in the tents (hopefully I didn't infringe on any copyright laws by filming it). Enjoy!

Going on now at Gilt Fuse, a must-have boot sale with names like Rosegold, Kelsi Dagger, Members Only and Butter. Styles include flats, heels and platforms embellished with fringes, tassles and studs. You need it? They've got it! While you might be weary of winter, now's the time to get great deals on items you'll be happy you bought when next season rolls around.

Sale ends 2/21 MIDNIGHT EST

BCBG Max Azria presented a fluid, modern collection for Fall 2010 consisting of dresses, wrap vests and tunic tops layered over lightweight long sleeve tees and mostly white opaque tights, in a muted palette of navy, gray and black with the occasional slice of sporty yellow or blue. Everything was subtle and sophisticated, including the graphic prints, sequined black dresses and occasional abstract embellishments. Elastic belts, oversized leather clutches and closed-toe platform ankle boots added some structure.

It was beautiful and the fabrics had great movement on the catwalk but I was surprised by how somber and minimalist it felt for this youthful brand. While none of the individual pieces stood out as contenders for fast-fashion-knockoffs, I can definitely see the colorblocking trend interpretted at lower price points. Another thing we budget conscious fashionistas can do is layer short sleeve tops, tunics and dresses over fitted long sleeve cotton tees for a BCBG Max Azria look for less.

What do you think? Are you inspired or bored by this collection?








Photos: Style.com

UPDATE 3/16/2010 We never heard from our first winner, so we've selected another winner to receive the bag! And that lucky lady is Beth Gerson! PLEASE keep an eye out for an email from Baghaus as they will be contacting you with details on receiving your prize. Thanks all for participating!!




Please note: This giveaway is now closed to further entries.

We've teamed up with Baghaus.com to offer one lucky Budget Babe reader the chance to win this Urban Expressions Bridget Bag, valued at $65.95.

Made of high-quality synthetic leather, the eye-catching Bridget Bag features lacing and tassle embellishments and measures 16.5" Wide x 14" High x 6" Deep.

To enter, just follow this link.

Good luck!

Entries must be submitted by Thursday, February 25th. Winner will be chosen at random and announced later that day.

The Macy's Spring 2010 Look Book is out, showcasing some of top trends we can expect to see in their ready-to-wear collection. Sequins are back, as are oversized pieces paired with skinny elements. Stripes, florals and what they're calling Afrique-Chic prints all make appearances on tops, skirts and dresses. I'm loving Rachel Rachel Roy's khaki coat paired with a bright blue top as well as that delicious embellished abstract-floral dress from DKNY. The return of canary yellow is also a welcome sign that spring is in the air (somewhere). I'm also impressed by the sophisticated styling, looks more Neiman Marcus than Macy's to me! But of course, with Macy's comes the affordable pricing we prefer. What say you?

I.N.C. DRESS: $99

MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS
TANK TOP: $69.50
JACKET: $129.50
DENIM: $89.50

BCBGENERATION
BOYFRIEND JACKET: $138
WALTER SHORTS: $103